HOME USER GUIDE Saxon Meadow Capel St Mary Suffolk - Plots 9-18, 23-26, 90-97
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HOME USER
GUIDE
Saxon Meadow
Capel St Mary
Suffolk
Plots 9-18, 23-26, 90-97
Page 2 of 27
Contents
Welcome To Your New Home 4
Repairs & Maintenance 4
Residents Responsibilites 5
Introduction to your Home 7
Minimis Cracking 7
Preventing Condensation 8
Extractor Fans 8
Efflorescence 9
Heat & Hot Water 9
Smoke Detectors 9
Cooker Connections 9
Television 9
Telephone 9
Washing Manchines 10
Council Tax 10
Glazing 10
Walls 10
Car Parking 11
Storage 11
Decoration 11
Privacy Handles 11
Blockages 11
Mildew 11
Oiling 11
Home Utilities 12
Location of Services & Equipment 12
Energy 13
Finding a faulty Appliance 13
Gas 15
Water 16
Responsible Purchasing 18
Waste & Recycling 19
Household Waste Recycling Centre 20
Sustainability 21
Urban Drainage 21
Organic Food Advice 21
Timber Procurement 22
Using Greener Materials 22
Disposing of Paint 22
Keeping Your Home Secure 23
Travel & Transport Information 24
Local Amenities & Useful Contacts 25
Page 3 of 27Welcome To Your New Home This Home User’s Guide has been prepared to help you become familiar with your new home quickly and easily. Please keep this handbook in a safe place, so that you can refer to it in the future. It contains information on how to look after your new home, how to report certain types of problems, initial gas, electricity and water supply information, as well as advice on safety and security. We have also included technical help and practical tips on DIY, energy saving and recycling. Your Housing Association provider should have provided you with user manuals supplied by the manufacturers and installers of the equipment used in your home. This is a standard document which does not supersede your tenancy agreement. Please refer to your tenancy / rental agreement for specific details and follow their guidelines. Housing Association Provider Your housing Association Provider is Colne Housing. To report a defect in the first 12 months of the build please contact Iceni Homes on Phone: 01284 33 33 75 Email: defects@icenihomes.com For emergencies outside of office hours please contact 0844 893 3943 Page 4 of 27
Residents Responsibilites
What you as the Tenant are responsible for
You are responsible for the upkeep of your home. This includes:
• Fitting of TV aerials and satellite dishes (where not provided by your Housing Association). If you
are thinking of installing satellite TV, you must first seek written permission from your Housing
Association, as permission will be needed. In the case of flats, a communal satellite dish has already
been installed and no separate installations will be needed or are permitted. The Association
reserves the right to specify the location of satellite dishes on any of our properties
• Minor cracks to plaster (except in sheltered housing schemes)
• Adapting doors to accommodate carpets
• Internal decoration (except in sheltered housing schemes)
• Fitting extra catches and safety devices (except in sheltered housing schemes)
• Minor gaps between skirting and floors which are capable of being filled by you whilst decorating
(except in sheltered housing schemes)
• External and internal window cleaning (except sheltered schemes, where external window cleaning
is covered by service charge)
• Plumbing-in and maintaining washing machines or dishwashers
• Plugs and chains on sinks, baths and basins, (except in sheltered housing schemes)
• Toilet seats (except in sheltered housing schemes)
• Bathroom cabinets, towel rails, toilet roll holders
• Light bulbs and fluorescent tubes (fluorescent tubes are provided by the Association in sheltered
housing schemes)
• Changing of domestic fuses (except sheltered housing schemes)
• Maintenance of any fittings and appliances not provided by your Housing Association
• The bleeding of radiators (except in sheltered housing schemes) – when you switch the central
heating system on for the first time in winter, please check that the radiator valve is fully turned
on and that some radiators may contain air that needs discharging using a radiator key to bleed
them. WARNING: Some systems that are powered by combination boilers require a certain
amount of air pressure to remain efficient – therefore in no circumstances should you bleed
radiators in these systems
Page 5 of 27• If you’re unsure please check with your Housing Officer. You will be forewarned if such a system
exists or is installed in your home. If you fail to take heed of this warning and the system is damaged
as a result, you may be charged the cost of repairing or replacement
• Tenants should not paint or redecorate the outside of their homes without your Housing
Association’spermission. If an incorrect finish is applied this may shorten the lifespan
of woodwork and will only have to be removed
• External and internal glazing (unless landlord’s responsibility under fire regulations, ie fire doors)
• Curtain rails
• Tidy dryers, washing lines and rotary dryers (unless communal or in sheltered housing schemes)
• Shelving, coat and hat rails
• Provision/replacement of dustbins/wheelie bins, unless otherwise specified by the Association.
Some local Councils supply these to each household and most councils are changing over to a dual
or triple bin system for recycling. If you are not sure, contact your housing officer or local Council
for advice
• Disinfestation within the premises (it is worth contacting the local council to see if they are able
to assist)
• Bell batteries and bulbs
• Smoke detector batteries (when the detector is connected to the mains, there are back up batteries)
• Hedge/lawn cutting and maintenance of private gardens, including private fences, sheds and
garages. Please note that the terms of your tenancy agreement requires you to maintain your garden
in reasonable order
• Rubbish clearance and cleaning of private areas
• Cleaning of common parts except where specified as part of service charge
• Floor coverings (Please note damage caused by you is your responsibility e.g. in moving appliances)
• Filters to extractor fans
• Telephone and TV connections
• Blocked WC/waste pipes. The Association can unblock WCs and pipes for you but we will recover
the cost of doing so from you before the work is carried out
In addition to the above the tenant is responsible for the cost of any repair required as a result of tenant
neglect/misuse. If your home is damaged by a third party you must report it to the Police and request a
crime number before reporting it to your Housing Association.
Page 6 of 27Introduction To Your New Home
New homes built today include a great many improvements in construction that have been introduced
over the years, but your new home still needs to be run-in gently for the first few months. This is because
bricks, timber, plaster and other materials generally absorb water during construction.
As your home is lived in and heated, it dries out. During the drying out period the wood and plaster in
particular may shrink, causing small cracks to appear. These cracks are not structurally important and are
covered in the normal process of redecoration.
New buildings often take a long time before they are fully dried out. While this is happening they need
heat and extra ventilation. During the first winter of occupation most houses and flats require gentle heat
over more hours than they may need in subsequent winters. Allowance should be made for this.
If at all possible try to avoid any decorating during the first year as your home will be assessed at the end
of the defects period.
General tenancy tips
• Don't put nappies, sanitary towels or sharp objects in down your toilet
• Keep all gutters free from leaves and rubbish, particularly in the autumn months
• Don't pour cooking fat down the drain
• Don't use hose pipes
• Close the door when cooking to prevent steam going into other rooms
• Open your windows for at least 30 minutes each day to let air circulate
• Avoid drying clothes inside whenever possible
• Wipe down surfaces when moisture settles
• Make sure floor surfaces are always kept dry and not slippery
Minimise Cracking
By following the steps below you should be able to reduce occurrence of cracking due to shrinkage:
• Avoid large temperature differences during the day by setting your heating controls at a
comfortably low level for longer periods (instead of shorter periods on a higher heat) This allows
your home to gradually warm up.
• Check to ensure all trickle vents (ventilation slots in your windows) are open 24 hours a day. This
allows gradual, gentle ventilation.
• Encourage ventilation by opening windows and internal doors whenever you reasonably can.
• Keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed when cooking or washing as these activities create a lot
of water vapour, by doing this you are not allowing the moisture to spread to other rooms in your
house. Ensure that the extractor fans are on when you wash or cook and open a window where
appropriate.
Page 7 of 27Preventing Condensation
Condensation is steam or water vapour that turns into water by condensing on cold surfaces, and next to
shrinkage is often the most common problem in new homes. It can damage clothes, bedding, floor
coverings, decorations and the home itself if mould growth takes hold on walls and ceilings. Homes that
are heated and ventilated intermittently are more likely to suffer condensation problems. The moisture in
the air comes from a number of sources within the house – water vapour is produced in relatively large
quantities from normal day to day activities such as washing and drying clothes, personal washing and
cooking.
Following the steps below will help deal with condensation issues.
Produce less moisture
Ordinary daily activities produce a lot of moisture. You can minimize the amount of moisture you
produce when for example boiling kettles, running baths and cooking.
• Use lids on all pans when cooking (this saves fuel too)
• If possible, dry clothes outside or in a cool area of your premises
• Wipe up wet surfaces after use e.g. bathroom tiles, kitchen worktops and sinks
Ventilate to remove moisture
You can ventilate your home without making draughts. Some ventilation is needed to get rid of the
moisture that is produced all the time. Keep trickle vents or passive ventilation open 24 hours a day.
Consider having a window ajar when convenient.
You need much more ventilation in the kitchen during cooking so you should open a nearby window.
Close the kitchen and bathroom doors when these rooms are in use. This stops the moisture reaching
other rooms, especially the bedrooms that are often colder and more likely to suffer from condensation.
• While drying clothes indoors, ventilation the room
• After a bath or shower, try to ventilate the room to the outside, not to the rest of the home –
opening a window (and closing the door) and/or allowing the extractor fan will help
Extractor Fans
Your home has continuously running ventilation Unity CV2GIP (dMEV) fans installed. This consists of
locally sited extract fans that form part of a whole house ventilation approach. These fans extract air on a
continual basis from the following areas (defined as wet rooms within Building Regulations) in residential
dwellings:-
• Kitchen
• Bathroom
• WC/Cloakroom
We strongly advise that the extractor fans should be left on and are kept running at all times.
Page 8 of 27Efflorescence
This is another sign of drying out that may appear as white deposits on outside walls. This is caused by
salts coming out of the wall materials. On external walls the efflorescence will eventually disappear.
Efflorescence can often be removed from external walls with regular dry brushing with a non-metal brush,
until the salts are exhausted is recommended. The presence of these sodium salts are not detrimental to
the performance or durability of the bricks.
Efflorescence in plywood, which is a natural product of the manufacturing process, is usually found
beneath porch roofs, on soffits and in some door panels and its removal can be assisted by washing off
with clean water and the gentle use of a soft brush. This process may need repeating until the salts are
exhausted. If internal efflorescence persists it may indicate a water leak, in which case you should contact
Orbit.
Heating and Hot Water
Your Housing Association will service and maintain heating appliances installed by them at yearly
intervals in accordance with the manufacturer’s safety documentation and regulations, a copy of any
required testing certificates are made available to you. It is your responsibility to ensure that any other
appliance supplied by you is regularly maintained and tested by a competent person. Thermostatic
radiator temperature valves control the radiators.
Do not allow anything to obstruct the boiler flue. Look for signs of corrosion of leakage from any part of
the system. This may be the first indication that it is in need of repair and Your Housing Association
should be advised.
Heat / Smoke Detectors & CO Detectors
The heat/smoke detector alarm is wired directly into the main supply and by-passes the RCB system
thereby ensuring that should any circuit breaker switch off due to overload or fault, the smoke alarms
remain fully operational. Smoke detectors are fitted with back-up batteries, which should be tested
regularly and replaced annually.
• Check the operation of heat / smoke detectors using the test button as detailed in the service guide
• Remove dust regularly from heat / smoke detectors by using vacuum attachments
• Change the battery in your alarm every year
• After 10 years replace your alarm
Cooker Connection
A qualified installer should carry out the installation of cookers.
Television
Television connecting points have been supplied within the lounge and the bedrooms.
Telephone
Sockets have been provided. You are responsible for their connection and resulting charges.
Page 9 of 27Washing Machines
The property is plumbed for an automatic washing machine. Please ensure the waste pipe is not capped
prior to connection and that any unused pipes are sealed. Flexible hoses may be connected in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions. Please ensure that the hoses are in good condition and that the
connecting rings and washers are watertight after connection. The waste hose should be clipped or wired
to the connecting pipe. Washing machines should not be connected to sink or basin taps. Once your
machine is installed, you must observe the following points:
• If the machine waste pipe is not connected to a proper trap, any appliance into which it discharges
must be capable of handling the waste water without risk of overflowing. The machine pipe must
be temporally secured to prevent displacement under vibration
• Inspect the machine hoses and connectors frequently, for deterioration. It is advisable to turn off
supply valves when away from the property for a length of time
• You will be held responsible for any damage caused to your home or a neighbouring property by
flooding from your machine (This is one of the many reasons why you should maintain a
comprehensive insurance policy)
• Remember that the combination of electricity and water can spell danger so observe the usual
precautions with regard to electric plugs and leads
• If you use a tumble dryer indoors you must use a ventilating hose or duct discharging out of a
window. Failure to do so causes serious condensation damage to the property for which you will
be held responsible
Council Tax
You should contact Babergh District Council as soon as you move in to advise of your new tenancy at the
address. Your Council Tax is payable from the date your agreement starts.
Phone: 01300 1234000 (option 2)
Visit: https://www.babergh.gov.uk/council-tax/
Glazing
Replacing broken glass is your responsibility and you are strongly recommended that a competent firm carry
out re-glazing, as your home will probably have been glazed originally with an energy efficient glazing system.
Walls
Before fixing anything to the wall or floor, check for the location of pipes and cables. You should also
always check with the housing association provider, to make sure they are happy with you doing the
works. The internal walls in your home are 12.5mm plasterboard on timber studwork and the
separating/external walls are 12.5mm plasterboard on dabs. Care needs to be taken when fixing into them.
Internal Walls: When fixing into the cavity behind the plasterboard – Use a suitable Rawl Plug
and screw. This should go through the plasterboard only
Separating Walls: Through the plasterboard – Use Rawl Spring Toggle. Small or light items may be
hung from picture hooks.
Page 10 of 27Car Parking
Allocated parking spaces may have been provided.
Storage
Residents are advised not to use the roof space for storage because of the possibility of damage to belongings
from condensation and the risk of personal injury and damage as the loft is not boarded. The roof space is
not designed to carry loads and storage should be restricted to light loads only (such as empty suitcases).
Decoration
You are responsible for the internal decoration of your home. Decoration work must be carried out in a safe
and workmanlike manner using, if necessary, a competent tradesperson and taking the precautions detailed
on the decorating material containers and packaging. Interior walls are dry lined plasterboard and are
emulsion painted. Please refer to your tenancy agreement for cleaning / redecoration advise.
Privacy Handles
Privacy handles have been fitted to the bathroom door. In the event of a child accidentally locking the door
or of any other emergency, the door lock can be released from the outer side by inserting a screwdriver or
small coin into the slot beneath the handle and rotating the lock mechanism.
Blockages
Any blockages caused by the tenant will be charged to the tenant. Please do not flush nappies, baby wipes,
sanitary towels, paper kitchen towels or excess toilet tissue down the toilets, as this will cause a major
blockage for yourselves and your neighbours. If a sink blocks, use a sink plunger or flexible rod to try and
move the blockage.
Mildew
Mildew growth finds suitable conditions on timber, plaster and particularly emulsion painted surfaces where
there is dampness and lack of ventilation. Mildew is particularly likely to occur in small closed rooms,
cupboards and in corners of larger rooms where the ventilation and air movement is poor. In most cases
mildew can be quite simply wiped off the surface of the paintwork using a solution of warm water with a
proprietary domestic fungicide such as 'Milton'. Normally no damage will occur to the surface through
mildewing.
Oiling
Six-monthly:
• Lightly oil door hinges
• Wipe clean and lightly grease high performance door hinges and lock cylinders
Annually:
• Lightly oil internal and external door handle mechanisms, particularly those with a three point
locking system
• Lightly oil window hinges
Page 11 of 27Home Utlities
Location of Services
Service Water Electricity Gas
Location of stop Under the kitchen In gas box to the front
In the consumer unit
valve/ main switch sink of the house
Plots 9-10, 25-26, 93, 95: In
electric box on side of house
Plots 11-12: On external wall
near the front door
In gas box to the front
Location of meter In the footpath
of the house
Plots 13-18: In groundfloor
communal entranceway
Plots 23-24, 90-92, 94, 96-97:
Cupboard under the stairs
Point of entry into In gas box to the front
Through stop valve Through the electric meter
the dwelling of the house
Supplier Anglian Water Eon Eon
Location of Equipment
Boiler In the kitchen
Plots 9-18, 23-24, 90-97: In the hallway
Heating Programmer, Timer & Thermostat
Plots 25-26: In the hallway and in bedroom 1
Plots 9-10, 23-26, 90-97: Cupboard under the stairs
Consumer Unit Plots 11-12: Boxed in bedroom 1
Plots 13-18: In the airing cupboard
Plots 9-12, 23-26, 90-91, 93-97: In the hallway and
upstairs landing
Heat Detectors
Plots 13-18: In the hallway
Plot 92: In the kitchen & upstairs landing
Washing machine connection Underneath the kitchen sink
Page 12 of 27Energy Supplier Your energy supplier for Electricity and Gas is E-on. Please contact your Housing Association Provider for your MPAN and MPRN numbers. Please contact them to have the supplies put into your name as soon as you move in. Alternatively you can arrange your supply from a wide range of utility suppliers once you have received your first bill from your current supplier. Please make any arrangements direct with the relevant company. The mains on/off switch controls the supply to your home and a number of circuit breakers. Each of these protects a different circuit and will be labelled for your information. These circuit breakers are very sensitive, much more so than the fuses you may be familiar with. Try not to overload the circuits by having a large number of appliances on at the same time. Electrical works can be extremely dangerous and only undertaken by a qualified electrician appointed by your Housing Association Provider. For your own safety please refrain attempting any works to the electrical circuits in your home. RCD's have a test button located in the consumer unit and you should carry out a test every six months as detailed on the unit or user guide. Remember to reset electrical equipment with timers after testing. Should the electricity circuit become overloaded; the breaker will 'trip'. This can be re-set manually by pushing the switch back to its original position. NOTE: We receive many reports of faulty electrics or trip switches in new properties but these are usually due to faulty appliances. Your appliance may have worked perfectly at your old address but the new sensitive circuit breakers will detect any small fault that may not have been apparent under the old system. If the circuit breaker trips more than once you will have to find out which appliance is causing the problem. How To find out which appliance is faulty 1. Switch every appliance off 2. One by one - slowly turn appliances on until the system trips (A washing machine may have to complete a full cycle) What is an Energy Performance Certificate? An Energy Assessment has been undertaken on your property. The concept of an energy performance certificate is to ensure that we are looking at the amount of fuel it takes to heat your property. This assessment indicates the home’s energy efficiency. Energy Performance Certificates tell you how energy efficient a home is on a scale of A+++-G. The most efficient homes - which should have the lowest fuel bills - are in band A+++. The Certificate also tells you, on a scale of A+++-G, about the impact the home has on the environment. Better-rated homes should have less impact through carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Your home has been constructed to high energy efficiency standards to minimise both running costs and CO2 emissions. The actual rating of your home will vary depending on built form, orientation and sheltering. Please refer to your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the actual energy efficiency rating and environmental impact (CO2) rating. Page 13 of 27
Energy Saving Tips
The following tips will reduce your energy use, carbon dioxide emissions and also running costs.
• Turn off standby appliances - Turn appliances off at the plug to save an average of £30 a year.
Households with more gadgets could see annual savings reach between £50 and £80
• Turn down your thermostat - Almost half the money spent on energy bills is absorbed by
heating and hot water costs. Turning your heating down by just one degree could save up to £75
a year
• Buy efficient appliances - When rqeuired, buying an appliance with a high energy-efficiency
rating can be worth the investment. An electric oven with the new A+ efficiency rating will use
around 40% less energy than a B-rated oven
• Retaining Heat - Do not put furniture or curtains in front of radiators or heaters, it will prevent
maximum circulation of heat. Close curtains to stop heat escaping when it gets dark and make sure
they do not hang over radiators
• Lights - Always turn off lights when you leave a room and adjust your curtains or blinds to let in
as much light as possible during the day. Fit energy saving bulbs where not already provided. They
last about 5 years and use about 80% less electricity
• Washing machines - Wait until you have a full load before using the washing machine and
remember you rarely require the hottest wash. Washing at 30 degrees rather than 40 degrees can
be a third cheaper, meaning savings of up to £52 a year – though you should make sure you have
the right detergent for this. You might still want to run a hotter wash occasionally to help keep
the machine clean.
• Fridges - don’t leave the door open for longer than necessary, as cold air will escape. Avoid
putting hot or warm food straight into the fridge: allow it to cool down first. Defrost your fridge
regularly to keep it running efficiently and cheaply. If it tends to frost up quickly, check the door
seal. And if you absolutely have to site your fridge next to the cooker or boiler, leave a good gap
between them.
• Dishwashers - try and use the low temperature programme, and ensure you wash a full load.
• Pots and pans - choose the right size pan for the food and cooker (the base should just cover the
cooking ring) and keep lids on when cooking. With gas, the flames only need to heat the bottom
of the plan. If they lick up the side then you’re wasting heat. And don’t use more water than you
need because it doesn’t only waste energy, but it spoils the food.
• Kettles - heat the amount of water you really need and if you’re using an electric kettle, make sure
you cover the elements. Jug-type kettles need less water as they have smaller elements.
• Taps - in just one day, a dripping hot water tap can waste energy and enough water to fill a bath.
Make sure they’re off.
• Showers – a short shower uses only two-fifths of the water needed for a bath.
Page 14 of 27• Boiler - where installed, turn down the hot water cylinder thermostat, but not below 60 degrees
Celsius (150F). If the heating boiler does not provide hot water, switch on the immersion heater
as and when hot water is required. Use an economy tariff (e.g. E7 or E10 where possible) as an
on-peak tariff can be expensive to use.
• Monitor you usage - Keeping a watchful eye on your consumption levels can help you decide if
and when you have to change the way you use energy
For further information on how to run your home efficiently and in the best environmentally sound way,
see link below:
The Energy Saving Trust
21 Dartmouth Street
London
SW1H 9BP
Customer advice line: free-phone 0800 512 012
Website: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
If any appliances have been installed in your new property, please ensure you read and keep safe the
manufacturer’s instructions and paperwork.
If You Suspect A Gas Leak
• Extinguish all naked flames.
• Turn off the gas at the meter.
• Open all doors and windows.
• Call The National Grid on telephone 0800 111 999
• Do not turn on any switches or electrical apparatus.
In the event of any gas installation / equipment defect or a suspected gas leak you should report the matter
in the usual manner to your gas supplier or make an emergency call to The National Grid on 0800 111 999.
Page 15 of 27Water Supply and Plumbing
Your water is supplied by Anglian Water. Please contact them to have the supply put into your name as
soon as you move in.
The internal stopcock should be turned off and on again at six monthly intervals to prevent seizure. If you
think your pipes are frozen, do not turn on the hot water taps, as this will empty the hot water cylinder.
Where pipes run under the floor they are normally identified with a marker or pencil line. Care should be
taken when fitting carpets not to damage concealed pipes.
As well as being irritating, dripping taps can stain sanitary ware; they should be attended to as soon as
possible.
Your taps have been fitted with a water restrictor which allows a more economical flow to the water supply
whilst delivering the same result. They are continually developed and are now standard in most new homes.
Do not allow water to over flow from storage tanks or cisterns. In time it may damage the fabric of the
building. If water is seen running from any of the overflow pipes IMMEDIATELY investigate. In the
case of the WC cistern it may simply require adjustment of the ballcock. Report any persistent overflow
to Orbit who will arrange for a plumber to attend.
In your new home you will be charged for the consumption of water as recorded by your water meter.
Water Use
Every household uses many litres of water every day of which only a very small percentage is used for
drinking and cooking.
By thinking carefully about your water use in the home and changing some water wasting habits, it is easy
to save water.
The following advice can assist in reducing your daily water use:
• Wasting warm water charges you twice – once for the water, and once for heating it –
unnecessarily adding to your bill
• You can save around £25 a year by washing up in a bowl rather than using a running tap
• Don't leave your taps running when you do the washing-up or clean your teeth
• Your toilet has a 4/2.5 litre dual flush and you should use the low flush wherever possible.
According to the Energy Savings Trust, you could save as much as 2,000 litres per person per year
• Taking a five minute shower uses 60 percent less water than bathing
• Turn off dripping taps or report them to Your Housing Association – If you leave a tap dripping,
it will produce enough water to fill half a bath every week!
• Wash your car by hand – it saves water compared to a hosepipe
Page 16 of 27• Check for water leaks on a regular basis
• Vegetables and fruit should be washed in a bowl rather than under a running tap and the leftover
water can be used for watering house plants
• Use the minimum amount of water required when you boil water in saucepans and kettles. That
way, you’ll save energy as well as water
• Try keeping a bottle or jug of water in the fridge instead of running taps until the water runs cold
• Half-load programmes on dishwashers and washing machines use more than half the water and
energy of a full load. Therefore, wait until you have a full load before switching the machine on
• Try not to leave the tap running while you brush your teeth, shave or wash your hands, as this can
use more water than a bath in less than 5 minutes
• A 5-minute shower uses about a third of the water of a bath. But remember that power showers
can use more water than a bath in less than 5 minutes
• Cotton wool and tissues should be put in a waste bin rather than flushed down the toilet
• Dripping taps can waste up to 4 litres of water a day. Replace worn tap washers for a quick and
cheap way of saving water
• Burst water pipes can cause serious damage as well as waste water. Ensure your water pipes and
external taps are lagged in time for the cold winter months. Read your meter regularly and monitor
consumption
During the summer months, an average household increases its water use by up to 25 percent of which
most is used in the garden.
• Water your garden in the cool of the early morning or evening. This will reduce the amount of
water lost to evaporation.
• Collect rainwater in water-butts and use a watering can instead of a hose. If you prefer to use a
hosepipe, fit a trigger nozzle to control the flow.
• Plant flowers and shrubs that thrive in the hot and dry conditions such as thyme, evening primrose,
rock rose, Californian poppy, pinks, lavenders, buddleia and hebes.
• Mulches such as wood chips, bark and gravel help to prevent water evaporate and also suppress
weed growth, saving you both water and time spent weeding.
• Lawns can survive long periods of dry weather if the grass is not cut too short. Even if the grass
turns brown, it will quickly recover after a few days of rain.
• Garden sprinklers can use as much water in an hour as a family of four uses in a day. If you use a
sprinkler, many water companies require you to have a water meter fitted.
Page 17 of 27Responsibe Purchasing
In most homes, lighting accounts for
Low energy / low water white goods
around 10 to 15 percent of an electricity
bill. Energy saving light bulbs use 70
percent less energy than normal light
bulbs but are just as bright. (This type of bulb is available at most supermarkets.)
The purchase of white goods with the highest ratings under the EU Energy Labelling Scheme assists with
reducing energy and water usage. When purchasing white goods it is recommended you consider the
energy efficiency rating, which should clearly be stated on the Eco Label, attached to the product.
Wherever possible you should purchase appliances that have an A rating, as these are the most efficient
and environmentally friendly. This label also details such information as energy and water consumption,
noise output and appliance performance.
EU Energy Label
We have all seen the labels on products and light bulbs, which rate
them from A+++ to G. By law, retailers, mail-order companies and
manufacturers must display these labels on all new domestic fridges,
freezers and fridge-freezers, washing machines, electric tumble
dryers, combined washer-dryers,
dishwashers and light bulbs for sale.
Labels for different products contain different pieces of
information.
The purpose of these labels is to allow consumers to easily compare
the performance of appliances.
Most appliances are rated on a scale of A+++ to G, with A+++
being the most efficient and G the least.
The only exceptions are refrigeration products. The more efficient
an appliance is, the more money you
can save and the more you help the environment. By buying a more efficient model you are not
compromising when it comes to performance either.
Energy consumption and running costs show how much electricity is used under standard conditions
measured in KWh/year ‘kilowatt hours’ for refrigeration appliances or KWh/cycle for washing machines
and other appliances.
Laundry and dishwashing labels also have ratings for washing, spin and drying performance. The A-G
indicators here are similar to the main energy efficiency ratings and are based on standard industry tests.
The test cycle is used on the label. Water consumption, capacity and other information is provided to help
you choose the best appliance for your own needs.
Manufacturers don’t have to provide information on noise, but if they do so you can use this information
to choose quieter models. The lower the dB, the quieter the performance.
Page 18 of 27Waste & Recycling
Babergh District Council will be responsible for your refuse collection, providing residents with alternate
weekly collections of recycled waste.
Disposal of Rubbish
Only waste contained within the correct wheeled bin will be collected. Externally, wheelie bins are
provided by the local authority and it is your responsibility to ensure that the bins are available for emptying
in the prescribed manner.
• Large items of rubbish such as old furniture, mattresses, etc can be disposed of by arrangement
with your District Council.
Recycling
Your recycling bin will be collected on alternative weeks. You should have installed in your kitchen a
separate bin, marked specifically for recycling items.
Invest in a compost bin to take all of your vegetable peelings, fruit skins, tea bags tec. Not only does it
reduce the rubbish in your bin but it is great for your garden.
For shopping, use canvas bags as much as possible as they do not split or cut into your hands when
carrying a heavy load.
Any plastic bags i.e. from supermarkets can be reused until they are torn.
Most supermarkets are offer stronger reusable bags which they will replace free of charge if they split and
some offer boxes, which once home, can go straight into your council recycling bin or re-use.
It is estimated that 29.1 million tonnes of municipal waste was generated in England in 2003. A total of
25.4 million tonnes of this waste of collected from households. That’s over one tonne of waste per
household per year.
Although household rubbish is a relatively small percentage of the total amount of waste produced, it is a
highly significant proportion because it contains large quantities of organic waste which can cause pollution
problems, as well as materials such as glass and plastic which do not easily break down.
Recyclable materials can also be taken to a local recycling site or to a household waste recycling centre for
disposal.
You can also invest in the garden waste bin with Babergh District Council to have your garden waste
collected at alternative weeks.
Page 19 of 27Household Waste Recycling Centre
There are a number of Household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) in Suffolk run by Suffolk County
Council, for full details visit: https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/planning-waste-and-environment/waste-and-
recycling/find-a-rubbish-tip-or-recycling-centre/.
Where’s my nearest HWRC?
Site Address Site Opening Times
Ipswich Recycling Centre 9am to 5:00pm, 6 days a week and closed on
Portman's Walk Wednesdays.
Ipswich During the winter months they close at 4:00pm
IP1 2DW opening times
Basic site rules
Each site displays a full set of rules to make your visit a safer, quicker experience but the following rules
are essential.
What types of waste are not accepted?
The HWRC will accept household waste from your own home (subject to some restrictions) for recycling
or disposal free of charge at all sites. Traders are able to recycle or dispose of the same range of materials
through the chargeable trade waste service.
Some materials are not accepted on sites: cat/dog poo, asbestos, clinical waste, explosives,
radioactive waste and liquid paint. For more information and details on other restricted items visit
https://www.suffolkrecycling.org.uk/where-to-recycle/recycling-centres/recycling-centre-rules-and-
charges
Please remember to
• wear gloves and sensible footwear when you visit your local Household Waste Recycling Centre
to keep safe
• place textiles in a bag to keep them clean and dry
• tie shoes together and place in a carrier bag
• clean and squash (where possible) your recyclables and remove labels and bottle tops before
placing items in the recycling bins
• adhere to the safety guidance given by site signs and staff
If you have any specific queries about the Household Waste Recycling Centres not covered
above then the link before should be able to help.
WRAP helps homeowners, businesses and local authorities to reduce waste and
recycle more, making better use of resources and helping to tackle climate change.
Further information on recycling and sustainable waste disposal can be accessed
from their website at: http://www.wrap.org.uk
Page 20 of 27Sustainability Local or centralised soakaways The surface water of private and public areas (including roads) is discharged via SUDs and filtrates back into the ground Organic Food Advice and Procurement There are distinct advantages to using locally sourced food. Locally produced food hasn't been carted halfway round the world to reach your kitchen, so there's far less environmental impact in terms of carbon emissions, pollution and so on. You're also guaranteed a greater degree of freshness as it's spent less time on the road. If this isn't enough, there's the bonus of having to deal with less packaging. Don't forget that you'll also be supporting the local economy. What you can do • Ask your supermarket if they sell local produce. If so ask them to define "Local" • Contact like-minded people via groups such as FoE, Garden Organic, Community groups, faith groups, gardening groups and allotments to investigate bulk or community buying. • Cook a LOAF (local, organic, animal friendly) meal for friends • Visit the local farmers' market • When out and about or on holiday, buy what you can from local farm shops • Check the country of origin of supermarket food • Try out new foods and recipes relating to seasonally available food • Subscribe to a box delivery scheme of local vegetables Did you know? • Many imported foods are specially packaged for shipping then unpacked and repackaged for the shops/supermarket. This produces lots of waste packaging • Some big stores sell "local" food which is produced locally then sent miles away for packing before returning to be sold. • A significant amount of organic meat sold in supermarkets is imported • Most of the food on your plate has travelled on average 1500 miles to get there • English orchards are vanishing at an alarming rate as we import most of our "English" apples from abroad For details of all certified farmers markets in the area contact FARMA Tel: 0845 45 88 420 or go to their website: http://www.farmersmarkets.net/ Supermarkets in the vicinity of the development sell all major foodstuffs and ranges, with more ethnic and cultural cuisine available throughout the city. Supermarkets often sell several price varieties within their stores. Change down a range to save money, Page 21 of 27
Sustainable Timber Procurement
Sustainable timber means that the tree harvested will be replaced with another tree, whether naturally grown
or planted. ‘Sustainable timber’ means that regardless of the extraction of individual trees, the forest maintains
its ecological function as part of important climate and water cycles.
Independent verification and forest certification are the most workable ways for the trade to
ensure legal and sustainable timber. There are many certification schemes such as FSC, PEFC,
MTCC or SFI
Use Greener Materials
The materials and finishes you choose for your DIY jobs can have an impact on the environment. Friendly
materials do not necessarily cost more and many are widely available:
• Use reclaimed wood - this saves energy and resources
• Buy certified wood - it is estimated that at least a quarter of the timber arriving in to the UK has been
produced illegally
• Sustainable timber, and other sustainable wood products, can be found by looking for
labels from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC – www.fsc-uk.org), the Programme for
the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes (PEFC) or other forest certification
schemes.
Choose Friendlier Paints, Finishes and Preservatives
Most paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to humans, wildlife, plants
and even building materials. When you are choosing a paint, finish or preservative, try to find the one with
the lowest impact possible for the job you are doing:
• Many paints have a label showing VOC content - choose the lowest VOC product you can
• Check to see if there is a hazard warning on the label. Choose a product without a hazard warning
• 'Natural' or 'all natural' paints, milk paints and white washes have a lower impact than ordinary paint
• Try not to buy more paint than you need - a lot of paint that people buy is never used
• Look for the European Ecolabel for indoor paints which indicates they contain no lead, mercury or
other heavy metals and are manufactured with reduced solvent emissions
Disposing of Paint, Finishes and Preservatives
Paints, finishes and preservatives need to be disposed of properly, as they can be toxic. This is particularly
important if they display an orange hazard label. Do not pour paint or other chemicals down the drain -
contact your local authority for guidance on disposal. You can usually take paint to your local civic amenity
site or some councils will collect it
You can find lots more Information online at the following websites:
Green Choices www.greenchoices.org/index.php/home
DEFRA www.defra.gov.uk/environment/
Recycle Now www.recyclenow.com/
Page 22 of 27Keeping Your Home Secure
Useful tips
• Whenever you leave your home – even to visit a neighbour for a short time – make sure that all
doors and windows are securely locked. Most thefts and burglaries are opportunist
• Do not leave a window – even an upper storey window - open for the cat. If a cat can get through
a window, a burglar probably can as well
• Do not leave ladders, steps etc visible in the garden. Keep them locked in a shed
• Try at all times to make the house look as if it were occupied
• Leave the lights on in the evening or use an automatic time switch
• Remember to cancel papers, milk and other regular deliveries before going on holiday
• Arrange for a neighbour or friend to cut your grass and generally keep an eye on the home while
you are away
• Never leave valuable and easy transportable items like video/DVD units where they can be seen
by looking through a window. The temptation may prove too much for a passing burglar
• Hide small valuable items like jewellery or even better take them to your bank before going on
holiday
• Walk round your home, imagining that you are a burglar and look for weak points where a burglar
could gain entry. Your windows and doors will have been fitted with security locks, please make
entry more difficult by using them
• A security chain fitted to the front door will prevent forced entry
• Make your back garden private and secure. Lock rear entry gates
• Keep front hedges and fences no more than waist high, so that neighbours can see your front and,
where applicable, side doors
• Make sure that the contents of your home are adequately insured against fire and theft and that
any terms about declaring valuable items etc are compiled with
• Photograph valuable items and use one of the recommended marking methods available so that
your goods can be traced if stolen
Page 23 of 27Travel & Transport Information Railways You can plan your journey and check train times for journeys in East Anglia with Abellio Greater Anglia. Website: www.greateranglia.co.uk Tel: 0845 600 7245 Buses You can check combined timetables at: www.firstgroup.com General Enquiries: 0845 606 6171 Information regarding coach travel beyond East Anglia can be found: http://www.nationalexpress.com/ 08717 818178 Town Maps Town maps can be found online at: www.google.co.uk/maps Online Journey Planners The AA website features a comprehensive car journey planner www.theaa.com. Car Sharing https://liftshare.com/uk/carshare Liftshare is a community scheme set up to help you get around the county by sharing car journeys. The service is free and is available to all. This site matches you up with potential partners as a driver or passenger. You can choose to share car journeys as little or as often as you like, with whoever you like! Airports Norwich Airport www.norwichairport.co.uk Stansted Airport www.stanstedairport.com Southend Airport https://southendairport.com/ Page 24 of 27
Local Amenities and Useful Contacts
Fire Station
Manningtree Fire Station
4 Quay St
999 in an emergency
Manningtree
CO11 1AU
Police Station
Suffolk Police - Capel St Mary Police Station
01473 613500
Bentley Road
101
Capel St Mary
999 in an emergency
Ipswich IP9 2JN
Accident & Emergency Hospital
Ipswich Hospital
01473 712233
Heath Rd
111 for non emargencies
Ipswich
999 in an emergency
IP4 5PD
National Grid (gas pipelines) 0800 111 999
Doctors Surgery
Constable Country Medical Practice
36 The Street
01473 310203
Capel St Mary
Ipswich IP9 2EE
Dental Surgery
The Capel Dental Practice
63 Thorney Rd
01473 311130
Capel St Mary
Ipswich IP9 2LL
Pharmacy
Day Lewis Pharmacy East Bergholt
Stonecroft, Gaston St
01206 298267
East Bergholt
Colchester CO7 6SE
Opticians
Premier Opticians Ltd
29 High St 01206 396396
Manningtree CO11 1AH
Page 25 of 27Vets
The Barn Veterinary Practice
Wenham Rd
01473 730213
Copdock
Ipswich IP8 3EY
Post Office
Co-Op 38 The Street
Capel St Mary 01473 310237
Ipswich IP9 2EB
Public Houses / Restaurants
White Horse Inn
London Rd
01473 313129
Capel St Mary
Ipswich IP9 2JR
Queens Head Public House
The Row
01473 310590
Great Wenham
Colchester CO7 6PU
Food Shops
Co-Op 38 The Street
Capel St Mary IP9 2EB 01473 310237
Pre-School/Nursery
Robin's Childcare
The Street
01473 310767
Capel St Mary
Ipswich IP9 2EG
Primary School
Church of England V C Primary School
Capel St Mary 01473 310386
Ipswich IP9 2EQ
High School
East Bergholt High School
Heath Rd
01206 298200
East Bergholt
Colchester CO7 6RJ
Sports Facilities
dbPT Transformation Studio & Boot Camp
19 Friars 07866 567217
Capel St Mary IP9 2XS
Page 26 of 27DIY Stores
Bypass Nurseries Garden Centre
London Road 01473 310604
Capel Saint Mary IP9 2JR
Library
Capel Library
The Street 01473 311699
Ipswich IP9 2EP
Community Centre
Capel St Mary Village Hall
01473 312026
Capel St Mary IP9 2EP
Citizens Advice Bureau
Ipswich & District Citizens Advice
19 Tower Street www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Ipswich 0300 330 1151
Suffolk 0344 411 1444
IP1 3BE
Places of Worship
In order to find most suitable place of worship locally, please refer to the yellow pages or visit Yell.com,
or contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau, on 0344 411 1444.
Page 27 of 27You can also read
